The Forces Redefining Work in Australia
Launch of the HR Landscape Research Report 2026
On 25 February 2026, Tandem Partners hosted a live webinar to officially launch the HR Landscape Research Report 2026: The Forces Redefining Work in Australia.
The session brought together senior HR leaders and contributors to the report, offering first-hand insight into the trends reshaping the profession and the future of work across Australia.
Panellists included:
- Adam Gibson, Regional Head of Talent, Vanguard
- Emma Brennan, Head of People Partnering, CPA Australia
- Gordon Johnston, Director APAC Talent Acquisition, CSL
- James McKay, Head of Workforce Strategy and People Analytics, ANZ
- Lani Dykes, General Manager Employee Experience, Opal
- Fiona Rose, Global DEI Specialist
- Paula Jeffs, Chief People and Transformation Officer, Melbourne Water
- Sophie Sigalas, Head of People and Culture, HESTA
- Rochelle Carland, Director, HumanAIFirst
The discussion explored the most significant forces influencing Australian workplaces heading into 2026 and beyond, including:
- The accelerating impact of AI and HR technology
- The evolution of CPO expectations and strategic HR leadership
- The changing role of HR Business Partners
- Shifts in talent acquisition, internal mobility and skills shortages
- Hybrid work, flexibility frameworks and employee experience
- Legislative reform and compliance developments
- The future of DEI, wellbeing and organisational development
The session provided practical insight into the opportunities and challenges facing HR leaders as workforce expectations, technology and regulation continue to evolve.
Further Resources:
- The full HR Landscape Research Report 2026 is available to download here.
- You can watch the full recording of the webinar below.